Dem leaders optimistic on defense bill despite progressive concerns

Members of the Progressive Caucus said Wednesday they remain undecided on how to vote on the $733 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) they consider too costly, adding they are watching to see which amendments get added to the bill on the floor.

Specifically, progressives are tracking amendments to prevent a military strike on Iran, block arms sales and other military support to Saudi Arabia, and limit the use of the existing war authorizations, among others.